Samuel also played for Bolton and had loan spells at Gillingham and Cardiff before ending his playing career in Iran in 2015.

Tributes flooded in after Samuel’s death was announced with Manchester United’s Ashley Young, a former Villa team-mate, tweeting: “Absolutely gutted to hear the news of the passing of Jlloyd Samuel.

“Took me under his wing when I joined Villa and helped me settle.

“Such a good guy on and off the pitch and a truly good friend. Condolences to Emma, his kids and the Samuel family. RIP J”

Absolutely gutted to hear the news of the passing of Jlloyd Samuel. Took me under his wing when I joined Villa and helped me settle. Such a good guy on and off the pitch and a truly good friend. Condolences to Emma, his kids and the Samuel family. RIP J 🙏🏾❤